Japan SDF Candidate Recruit Exam Photo: Spec and How to Create
Make a Japan Self-Defense Forces recruit exam photo that meets Ministry of Defense rules, from a smartphone shot, for ¥200.
| Dimensions | 40mm × 30mm |
|---|---|
| Face length | Not specified |
| Top margin | Not specified |
| Background | Plain background, white recommended — no official color spec, but plain background is customary |
| Shoot-by window | Taken within 6 months of application |
| Official issuer | Ministry of Defense / Japan Self-Defense Forces |
View the official source ↗(Last verified: 2026-05-26)
Verbatim official spec
The verbatim official spec from Japan's Ministry of Defense / SDF recruitment guide is shown below in the original Japanese.
- 「次のような写真を、その裏面に氏名を記入し、はがれないように貼ってください。・申込前６箇月以内撮影 ・脱帽、上半身、正面向き ・縦４㎝、横３㎝程度」
Why this spec matters
Japan SDF (Self-Defense Forces) candidate recruit exams require **two identical photos** — one for the application form and one for the SDF exam ticket. The official spec uses the wording "approximately 4cm × 3cm" rather than a strict ±0.5mm tolerance, giving more flexibility than My Number or national civil service exam photos. However, the unique requirements are strict: taken within 6 months of application, no hat, upper body front-facing, and **name written on the back with photos firmly attached so they cannot peel off**. With candidates aged 18–32, many apply close to deadlines, so understanding the spec ahead of time avoids last-minute reshoots.
How to create it for ¥200
A spec-compliant SDF recruit exam photo takes about two minutes with a smartphone and ¥200.
- 1
Take the photo on your smartphone
Stand against a plain wall in a bright room. Face the camera directly, no hat, upper body visible, neutral expression with mouth closed, eyes on the lens. - 2
AI removes background and aligns to 30×40mm spec
Upload the photo. AI removes the background, detects your face, and auto-crops to the 30×40mm SDF spec. Fine-tune position to 0.1mm precision. - 3
Print 2 copies via QR code and sign the back
After payment, a QR code and 8-digit user number arrive by email. Print at any Japan convenience store (L-size from ¥30), cut out two copies, write your name on each back, and attach firmly to the application and exam ticket.
Create an SDF Recruit Exam Photo for ¥200 (2 prints supported)
AI auto-adjusts your smartphone shot to the Ministry of Defense official spec. A QR code for printing two copies at any Japan convenience store is emailed to you.
Create now — ¥200What Ramune AI ID Photo offers
Even for a tight spec like My Number, you can finish the entire shoot → process → print workflow in your browser.
0.1mm face position adjustment
Drag the hairline, chin, and face-width guides — or type the millimetre value — to fit inside even a 4mm-wide regulatory window like the My Number spec.
Auto-generated L-size print sheet
Multiple photos optimally arranged on L-size paper with cut marks. Print directly at home or at a convenience store.
AI removes the background automatically
Walls or objects in the original shot are auto-removed; AI converts the photo to the plain background the spec requires.
AI skin smoothing with a natural finish
Auto-reduces blemishes and uneven tone while keeping a natural look. Choose between the original and the smoothed version.
Print at 55,000 convenience stores nationwide
Scan a QR code at the multi-copy machine in 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson, Ministop, or Poplar — L-size prints from ¥30.
5-language support, no app required
Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese — works entirely in your smartphone browser without installing an app.
Frequently asked questions
How strict is the "approximately 4cm × 3cm" tolerance?
Why are two photos required?
Is the photo spec different for online vs paper applications?
Do Ground, Maritime, and Air SDF require separate photos?
Is writing the name on the back mandatory? Can I use a pencil?
Related content
Create an SDF Recruit Exam Photo for ¥200 (2 prints supported)
AI auto-adjusts your smartphone shot to the Ministry of Defense official spec. A QR code for printing two copies at any Japan convenience store is emailed to you.
Create now — ¥200